He is, however, now showcasing his undoubted ability in English football, with Premier League and cup competition illuminated by his talent.

An unfortunate injury has prevented him from enhancing his reputation over recent weeks, but he was back with a bang in Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Yeovil Town in the FA Cup third round.

Stepping off the bench at Huish Park, Di Maria helped to provide United with a much-needed attacking spark, with a sublime finish in the closing stages adding gloss to an impressive cameo.

Among those left purring at Di Maria’s Midas touch is Old Trafford teammate Darren Fletcher, with the Scotland international of the opinion that his South American colleague has quickly become a priceless commodity.

He told MUTV: "It was a touch of class to dink it over the goalkeeper, a fantastic goal, so credit to him.

"He showed exactly what he's all about, he's learning quickly and he makes great, intelligent runs as well. He always wants the ball, he gets kicked and he just keeps getting up – he's that strong.

"We have missed him, but hopefully he's back now and he can kick on for the second half of the season and be the really important player we know he's going to be."

Di Maria should be expected to thrive over the second-half of the season, providing he can steer clear of the treatment table.

He is the type of player who deserves to be top dog and stepping out of Ronaldo’s shadow in Spain could see him scale new heights.

The impact he has already made at United should not be underestimated either, with his willingness to join the club offering supporters a pre-season pick-me-up while inspiring those around him on the playing staff to raise their game and spark a Premier League title challenge.

Chris Burton

Chris is a freelance journalist with a passion for all major sports. He has spent much of his career to date focusing on the wonderful world of football, across all levels. He has also had the pleasure of interviewing a diverse mix of sportsmen and women – including Gareth Bale, Frank Lampard, Xabi Alonso, Marcel Desailly, Roy Hodgson, Manu Tuilagi, Jonny Wilkinson, Nicola Adams and Ed Clancy.